Phase 1 Orthodontics – Dublin, CA
Minimizing Future Problems with Early Orthodontic Treatment
Dr. Seto provides top-rate orthodontic care to children and teenagers with crooked teeth, misaligned bites, and extensive gaps. While traditional braces are often recommended for teenagers, young patients with primary and permanent teeth may benefit from Phase 1 Orthodontics in Dublin. Whether it is guiding their jaw development or addressing protruding teeth, we invite you to call our office to schedule a consultation today.
Why Choose Waterford Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Dublin for Phase 1 Orthodontics?
- Board-Certified Orthodontist on Staff
- Insurance-Friendly Practice In-Network with Many Plans
- All Orthodontic Services in One Convenient Location
How Phase 1 Orthodontics Works
Phase 1 Orthodontics is designed for children ages 6 to 9 with both primary and permanent teeth. When oral development issues put them at risk of future dental problems (e.g., bite misalignment, improper jaw positioning), this early orthodontic intervention can be enough to guide their smile in the right direction.
Phase 1 is generally recommended if your child’s baby teeth have fallen out too early, they have a significant speech impediment because of dental alignment, or if they have protruding teeth. It’s also helpful if:
- Your child practiced thumb-sucking or prolonged pacifier use during toddlerhood and early childhood, as this can cause dental-related developmental issues.
- Their teeth do not come together as they should.
- They have a narrow airway, causing them to breathe through their mouth.
Depending on the problem and its severity, Dr. Seto will use a palate expander, partial braces, space maintainers, or other similar appliances to address the problem. These help reduce the likelihood that your child might need braces in the future or more complex dental procedures, such as jaw surgery.
Who is a Good Candidate for Phase 1 Orthodontics?
If you’re unsure whether your child is a good candidate for Phase 1 Orthodontics, here are a few key indicators. They:
- Have protruding baby and/or adult teeth
- Have a disproportionate jaw
- Breathe through their mouth while asleep
- Struggle to speak clearly and suffer a speech impediment
- Have a significant gap between their teeth
- Suffer from overcrowding or crooked teeth
The Benefits of Phase 1 Orthodontics
When you decide that Phase 1 Orthodontics is a suitable option for your child, you’ll find there are great benefits to early intervention. Not only will their orthodontist in Dublin address oral and facial developmental issues while they are still growing, which is often much easier than as an adult, but we’ll also minimize their risk of poor bite alignment, tooth impaction, poor jaw growth, and a sleep-breathing disorder.
It’s also possible that after Phase 1 Orthodontic treatment, your child may not require Phase 2 braces!